1998 Lexus LS 400 V8 from North America

Summary:

Faults:

The only thing that's gone wrong with this car is normal wear and tear. The brakes, tires, and a couple of fuses needed to be replaced, but I expect these issues on any car.

General Comments:

By far the best car I have ever driven and owned. I keep saying I'm going to get rid of this car and downgrade to a lower model Lexus, but I can't bring myself to sell this car. I love everything about it.

Mine has almost every bell and whistle, with the exception of heated seats. Has GPS and power everything. Driving this car long distances feels like you are sitting on your couch with a steering wheel in your hand.

The car is extremely comfortable, has great pick up for a car its size, and is deceptively quick. Also has an excellent turning radius for any car, but especially one this size. Many have been surprised to try and race me from a standing stop, and I blow right by them. The engine is very powerful yet smooth, and extremely quiet, to the point that you aren't sure if it's on or not.

Gas mileage is great on long distances. Every now and then I'll drive from Boston, MA to Montreal, Canada, and can get there easily on 3/4 of a tank (over 300 miles).

The interior is clean, with wood paneling on the center console and steering wheel. Buttons are positioned well and easy to access. I'm 6'4, and I fit comfortably in any seat, whether driving or as a passenger in the backseat.

The factory sound system is very good and crisp.

Mechanically this car is very sound. My LS has 180,000 miles on it, and still drives as though it's brand new. No issues with the engine, transmission, or anything else.

Has bright HID headlights; great for driving in darkly lit areas.

The trunk isn't very large, but is certainly very functional.

Overall, I can't say enough positive things about this car.

The only negatives I would say, is the car takes premium gas, which can be expensive, but buying this type of car, one should expect that.

The factory GPS works sporadically, however that can likely be fixed by getting an update (tough to find locally, but can find one online).

The trunk space isn't great either, as mentioned before, and as many other reviewers have said, the cup holders are very small.

22nd Aug 2012, 12:12

For the record, I'm not drag racing, nor have I ever done so - my point is the car is very quick. I have a daughter myself, and would like to live long enough to see her grow up and get married. You took the smallest detail of what I was trying to say, and turned it into a negative. No need to lecture me about being a responsible adult!

27th Dec 2012, 20:19

Hi from the UK

I have two 98 LS 400, one on LPG, & I agree they are great cars. I also have a GS300 Sport, which is also great, but I much prefer the 400 for their unabashed luxury obtainable now at very little cost.